Features

ABOUT THIS SERIES — The 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement and the opening of China to global trade decimated manufacturing in Southwest Virginia. In this three-part series, we look at how Vaughan-Bassett Furniture is attempting to recover.

VIDEO LINK AT END OF STORY: WATCH AN 11-MINUTE VIDEO INTERVIEW WITH JOHN D. BASSETT III, CHAIRMAN OF VAUGHAN-BASSETT FURNITURE.

For the Dows, it was the best Christmas present they could ever ask for.
The family’s boxer, Daisy, was returned to them before Christmas after being missing for a year-and-a-half.
In July 2010, during a family gathering, the Dows’ rat terrier broke her leash and escaped from their yard on Nuckolls Curve Road in Galax. Soon after, Daisy slipped out of her collar and followed behind.

Dear Santa,
Hi Santa,
I want to give you hugs. I loved my toys last year. I have been a really good, sweet girl this year. I would like a whole, whole, whole bunch of Polly Pockets this year. I would like a big girl bicycle too. Thank you
I Love You!
Lauren Bouchard

Dear Santa,
Hi Santa, this is my first Christmas and I’m really excited! I have been a good girl. I would like a fluffy puppy to play with that does tricks. Please bring my Mommy and Daddy a special present too.
Love,